Wallpaper & wall coverings

Wallpapering involves three essential phases: preparation, pasting, and hanging. Begin by preparing walls through removing old paper, sanding surfaces, filling cracks, and cleaning with sugar soap. Measure carefully, cutting strips with extra length and marking a straight vertical guide using a plumb line or spirit level.

For adhesive, you can use the "Paste-the-Wall" method by applying paste directly to the wall, or the "Paste-the-Paper" method by applying adhesive to the back of each strip and allowing it to soak. When hanging, align your first strip carefully and smooth out air bubbles from the centre toward the edges. Trim excess at the ceiling and skirting boards, then wipe away surplus paste with a damp sponge for a clean finish.
 

You can paint over wallpaper if the surface is smooth and firmly adhered to the wall. The most important step is applying a non-water-based primer first, as water-based products can cause bubbling or peeling.

Avoid painting over textured, loose, or damaged wallpaper, as this can affect the finish. Properly preparing seams and blocking old patterns will help achieve a smooth, professional result without removing the wallpaper.
 

To panel a wall, start by measuring the space and planning your layout using decorator’s tape. Prepare the surface by removing fixtures and sanding smooth. Cut MDF or wood panels to size, ensuring accurate angles for corners.

Check for hidden pipes or wires before installation. Apply construction adhesive to the back of each panel and press firmly onto the wall, keeping everything level. Secure panels if required, then finish with caulk and filler. Once dry, sand, prime, and paint for a professional finish.
 

To calculate how much wallpaper you need, measure your wall height and width while taking into account roll dimensions and pattern repeat. Allow extra length per strip to keep patterns aligned and add around 10% extra for trimming and errors.

It is recommended not to subtract windows and doors, as excess paper helps cover waste and allows for future repairs. For the most accurate result, using a wallpaper calculator can help determine the correct quantity before purchasing.
 

You can wallpaper over lining paper if it is in good condition and securely attached. Check for peeling or bubbling and repair any damage before starting. Fill and sand any imperfections, and apply a primer if the surface has been painted.

When hanging wallpaper, offset new seams from the original layer to avoid overlap. Using a high-quality adhesive will help achieve a smooth finish. This approach avoids the need to strip walls while still delivering a neat, professional result.